Resource Guide for Technology-Based Economic Development Positioning Universities as Drivers Fostering Entrepreneurship Increasing Access to Capital

摘要

During the last several years, the U.S. economy has been undergoing a dramatic transformation as the nation moves to an economy driven by technology through the creation of new industries and the application of technology in traditional industries. Competing in a global economy, regions must have an economic base composed of firms that constantly innovate and maximize the use of technology in the workplace. Technology-based economic development is the approach used to help create a climate where that new economic base can thrive. Based on the experience of tech-based economies like Silicon Valley, Research Triangle, and Route 128, it is generally acknowledged now that the following elements are required for a tech-based economy: An intellectual infrastructure, i.e. universities and public or private research; laboratories that generate new knowledge and discoveries; Mechanisms for transferring knowledge from one individual to another or from one company to another; Physical infrastructure that includes high quality telecommunications systems and affordable high speed Internet connections; Highly skilled technical workforce; Sources of risk capital; Quality of life; and Entrepreneurial culture. This resource guide focuses on three of the elements intellectual infrastructure, capital, and entrepreneurial culture and is intended to assist economic development practitioners in their efforts to accelerate transition to technologybased economies. The decision to address these three elements within one document was deliberate because, though apparently distinct, the elements are